Ivan Sokolov - Understanding Middlegame Strategy Vol 13: Reversed Colour Systems – Grünfeld & Dutch

by ChessBase
1/29/2026 – In this video course, Grandmaster Ivan Sokolov explores one of the most intriguing and under-examined areas of modern chess: reversed opening systems, focusing on the Reversed Grünfeld and the Reversed Dutch. At first glance, these two systems seem unrelated. However, they share a common strategic challenge: the value of tempi, structure, and psychology when familiar openings are played with colours reversed. Drawing on his long professional experience, Sokolov explains why these positions are far more subtle than they appear and why traditional engine evaluations often fail to capture their true complexity.

In this video course, Grandmaster Ivan Sokolov explores the fascinating world of Dutch and Grünfelkd structures with colours reversed.
In this video course, Grandmaster Ivan Sokolov explores one of the most intriguing and under-examined areas of modern chess: reversed opening systems, focusing on the Reversed Grünfeld and the Reversed Dutch. At first glance, these two systems seem unrelated. However, they share a common strategic challenge: the value of tempi, structure, and psychology when familiar openings are played with colours reversed. Drawing on his long professional experience, Sokolov explains why these positions are far more subtle than they appear and why traditional engine evaluations often fail to capture their true complexity.
Free sample video: Introduction
Free sample video: Larsen’s b4 Plan vs Reversed Stonewall Setups: Larsen - Spassky

Understanding Middlegame Strategy Vol 13: Reversed Colour Systems – Grünfeld & Dutch

by Ivan Sokolov

In the Reversed Dutch, Sokolov examines 1.f4 from both a practical and strategic perspective. He discusses why many players of the Dutch are uncomfortable facing these structures as Black, how gambit-like positions can arise very early, and why human judgment is often more important than concrete engine lines. Using top-level examples - including games involving Magnus Carlsen - he evaluates whether White’s extra tempo is truly meaningful, or if Black can achieve a fully playable game.

Free sample video: Introduction

The course then moves to the Reversed Grünfeld, where Sokolov analyses two major setups: classical Grünfeld structures with colours reversed, and more flexible versions arising from English-type move orders. Through detailed game analysis, he shows how Black can neutralise White’s extra tempi; why these positions are especially tricky to handle; and where practical chances for improvement still exist - particularly for White players trying to press for an advantage.

Free sample video: Larsen’s b4 Plan vs Reversed Stonewall Setups: Larsen - Spassky

Throughout the course, the emphasis is on middlegame understanding, not memorisation. Sokolov highlights key plans, typical piece placements, psychological factors, and long-term strategic goals, making this course highly valuable for players who either face these reversed systems or want to employ them confidently themselves. This is an insightful and practical guide to a fascinating strategic battlefield that every serious tournament player should understand.

Running time: 3 hours 25 minutes

In this video course, Grandmaster Ivan Sokolov explores the fascinating world of Dutch and Grünfelkd structures with colours reversed.
In this video course, Grandmaster Ivan Sokolov explores one of the most intriguing and under-examined areas of modern chess: reversed opening systems, focusing on the Reversed Grünfeld and the Reversed Dutch. At first glance, these two systems seem unrelated. However, they share a common strategic challenge: the value of tempi, structure, and psychology when familiar openings are played with colours reversed. Drawing on his long professional experience, Sokolov explains why these positions are far more subtle than they appear and why traditional engine evaluations often fail to capture their true complexity.
Free sample video: Introduction
Free sample video: Larsen’s b4 Plan vs Reversed Stonewall Setups: Larsen - Spassky

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